KIDSHaving a dog helps children's development
Is this true? Make your call, then see what the science says.
Short answer: It depends. The evidence is mixed.
Studies and guidance link dogs with better social, emotional and learning outcomes in children. Most of the research is observational, so it can't prove a dog causes the benefit. Bites and germs are real risks.
AI-generated summary of the research cited · not reviewed by a medical professional · checked 18 October 2026 · How we checkWhat the research found
A 2026 systematic review looked at dog ownership and neurodevelopment in children with conditions such as autism. It included 16 studies. Despite mixed reporting methods, dog ownership was linked with positive effects across several areas of development in children with autism.
A large Japanese birth cohort study (2019) followed 78,868 infants. Babies with a dog at six months had higher rates of passing all five areas of a development check at 12 months. These areas were communication, gross motor, fine motor, problem-solving and personal-social skills.
A 2020 consensus statement on children and pets says the relationship is beneficial when properly managed. It points to emotional attachment, self-esteem and cognitive development. US health guidance also says dogs influence social, emotional and cognitive development in children.
What it doesn’t mean
- Most of this research is observational. Families who have dogs may differ in other ways, so the studies can't show that a dog itself improves development.
- Dogs carry risks. Children are more likely than adults to be bitten, and their injuries tend to be more severe. Most bites to young children happen with familiar dogs, so always supervise young children around dogs.
- Dogs can carry germs, so wash hands after handling them and pick up dog poop. Talk to a GP or child health nurse if you are unsure whether a dog suits your family or your child's needs.
Sources
General information only, not medical advice. KIDS fact-checks are generated by AI from published research and are not reviewed by doctors or other health professionals. They can be wrong or out of date. Always talk to your GP or child’s doctor about your child, and call 000 in an emergency. Spotted a problem? Tell us.
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